In this heartfelt khutbah delivered on 19 April 2024, Ayberk Efendi offered a clear map for anyone walking the Sufi path. Before taking any step, he invited us to pause, examine our intention, and seek counsel from those whose integrity is confirmed by God. The Qur’an itself serves as an ever‑present guide—delivering warnings, advice, and examples through prophets, companions, and its own verses. No one can claim ignorance of this guidance; hearing it without acting bears responsibility.
Turning Inward Before Looking Outward
Ayberk Efendi reminded us that every decision begins with sincere self‑reflection. When a doubt arises—Should I do this or not?—the first question must be directed inward: Am I certain my intention aligns with the truth? If uncertainty remains, it often signals that the nafs (ego) is influencing the heart. Persisting in choices driven solely by personal desire can lead to spiritual negligence and, ultimately, accountability before Allah on the Day of Judgment.
The Qur’anic Call to Be Among the Truthful
The khutbah repeatedly cited the Qur’an’s injunction: “Be among the truthful, be among the steadfast” (Qur’an 9:71). By surrounding ourselves with sincere believers—those who embody truth and loyalty—we gain ears that hear what is right and eyes that discern what is false. Conversely, keeping company with the misguided clouds our perception; the words we hear become distorted, and we risk repeating mistakes.
Consulting the Trustworthy (El‑Emin)
When self‑examination does not yield clarity, Ayberk Efendi advised turning to a trusted guide—referred to in classical terminology as el‑emin. This is not merely any opinion holder but someone whose integrity has been verified by divine signs and who stands firmly within the prophetic lineage. In practice, an el‑emin may be a Sheikh, a learned scholar, or a senior member of our own community who lives according to Qur’anic principles.
The process can be summed up in three simple steps:
- Identify the uncertainty – articulate the specific decision you face.
- Seek counsel from an el‑emin – approach a trusted spiritual mentor and present the matter honestly.
- Listen and reflect – weigh the guidance against Qur’anic teachings and your sincere intention.
Ayberk Efendi emphasized that this consultation is not optional for a true murid (disciple). Declaring, “I do not need a guide,” while ignoring the signs of doubt places one outside the protective framework of the tariqa.
Ultimate Accountability
Every choice—whether made independently or under guidance—carries weight in the sight of Allah. Ayberk Efendi illustrated this with prophetic examples: companions who ignored the call to defend the community faced criticism, while those who obeyed displayed steadfastness and later received divine forgiveness. The Qur’an leaves no excuse: we have been warned through revelations, prophets, and the living example of the righteous; therefore each individual must answer for their actions.
If you feel called to deepen your practice, consider joining our [Live Meetings](https://royalottomans.com/live-meetings), where seekers gather under qualified guides to ask questions, receive el‑emin counsel, and strengthen their connection to the Divine. May our hearts remain ever open to truth, and may we walk together on the straight path.
